Gatlinburg's Winter Magic and Winterfest Tour of Lights

Gatlinburg, Tennessee loves to celebrate their winter season, which is why they put on the spectacular Winterfest Winter Magic festival from early November through late February every year.

During this time, the entire town is covered in intricate and spectacular Christmas light designs that impress and delight visitors and locals. Aside from the pretty decorations, there are many special winter activities that go on during Gatlinburg Winter Magic. The town offers trolley rides, which take visitors through town on a tour of all the special holiday decorations. Mini-festivals are held on weekends throughout the winter; in the past, there have been arts and crafts fairs, chili cook-offs, Christmas tree decorating competitions and traditional storytelling get-togethers. Check the town's websites for this year's festivals.

Special events and performances also happen every year during the Winter Magic festival. Ballet performances of The Nutcracker are held annually, and the December "Christmas on Ice" show displays the talents of amateur and professional ice skaters from the area. The annual Christmas Parade, usually held in early December, features floats, celebrity guests, and of course, Santa Claus. And New Year's Eve in Gatlinburg is not to be missed, with a party that rivals Times Square with its ball drop, fireworks display, and street celebration that goes well past midnight.

Points of Interest

Gatlinburg Parkway in Gatlinburg, TN

Incredible shops, dining options, and area attractions fill the famous Gatlinburg Parkway as it leads into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.